Red Light Therapy for Rosacea: Things You Need To Know Now
According to the National Rosacea Society, as many as 16 million people in the U.S. alone suffer from rosacea. Studies also show that this chronic skin condition tends to be more prevalent among fair-skinned individuals.
While rosacea may not be completely eliminated, it is entirely possible to control its worst effects and to live a normal life without constant pain, flushing and pimples all of which can knock out your self-esteem.
Red light therapy for rosacea is one of the dermatology-recommended methods that may help to alleviate the effects of this skin condition.
The Benefits of Using Red Light Therapy to Treat Rosacea Include:
- Reduced inflammation, tightness, itching flashing and occurrence of pustules
- Even skin tone
- Restoration of the skin’s moisture
- Alleviation of sun burns
How Red Light Therapy Works To Treat Rosacea
Red light therapy for rosacea is one of the dermatology-recommended methods that may help to alleviate the effects of this skin condition.
Dermatologists recommend light therapy in combination with other mainstream treatments to drastically reduce the effects of rosacea. You will hear many claims about specific red light wavelengths being the most effective in treating skin conditions. In reality, the best light therapy devices are those that utilize a wider range of visible wavelength to include yellow, green, and even blue light.
For natural rosacea treatments that actually work, take a look here.
Where Did Red Light Technology Originate From?
NASA was the first to develop and use red light technology to stimulate plant germination and to treat injured astronauts in space. Different wavelengths of red light are now used in treatment facilities for all types of disorders including treating rosacea symptoms, eliminating wrinkles and fine lines and restoring damaged hair.
In red light therapy, wavelengths between 620nm and 700nm are used. Home kits for treating rosacea and other skin conditions use wavelengths of between 630nm and 660nm. The wavelengths can be absorbed into the skin at a depth of up to 8mm or 10mm. The mitochondria in the skin cells convert the red light into a type of energy that:
- Triggers the release more fibroblast and collagen to improve skin elasticity
- Boosts a natural cleaning mechanism by the cells
- Lowers inflammation
- Boosts granulation of facial tissues
- Improves blood circulation in the face
Using Red Light Therapy for Rosacea With Other Skin Care Treatments
Given the chronic and stubborn nature of rosacea, no one type of treatment will be enough to completely treat the condition. Dermatologists always recommend a combined series of treatment options to effectively alleviate the symptoms of rosacea. Procedures such as laser treatment, facial peels and microdermabrasion are typically used to reduce rosacea symptoms.
You may use red light therapy after these treatments to speed up healing and for long-term skin regeneration. Topical treatments are also used as part of the skin care regimen for treating rosacea. It is best to consult with your dermatologist before using red light therapy in combination with topical creams. Some creams may cause light sensitivity if used with red light therapy, which may do more harm than good.
A better approach is to use light therapy on a clean skin surface and then apply the cream after your therapy.
Shedding Light on Other Lights
You may use red light therapy after these treatments to speed up healing and for long-term skin regeneration. Topical treatments are also used as part of the skin care regimen for treating rosacea. It is best to consult with your dermatologist before using red light therapy in combination with topical creams. Some creams may cause light sensitivity if used with red light therapy, which may do more harm than good.
As mentioned earlier, light therapy works best when one or more wavelengths are combined to alleviate all types of symptoms and effects that may be associated with the skin condition. Yellow light and green light can be used in combination with red light.
Yellow light is known for its soothing effects. When used with red light, yellow light can minimize red spots, reduce the appearance of blood vessels and soothe inflamed skin. Green light can also be used with red light therapy for rosacea to reduce flushed, itchiness, inflammation and tightness associated with the condition.
At wavelengths of between 515nm and 520nm, green light may reduce hyperpigmentation and minimize sun burns/spots.Generally, the type of light used in the treatment of rosacea (and other conditions too) is visible light.
However, it is possible to also use visible light such as red light with invisible light such as infrared light. At wavelengths between 700nm and 1mm, infrared light has been shown to minimize pain in the body, to alleviate inflammation and to correct skin conditions such as hyperpigmentation, pustules and the redness associated with rosacea.
When Are Results Visible?
The truth is, you may not see any drastic changes immediately when you use red light therapy for rosacea. However, this does not mean that the treatment is not working - it may take up to 2 weeks to see results. It is recommended that you give the therapy at least 12 weeks to see substantial changes to your face.
Regular light therapy is recommended for best results, depending on the extent of the condition. You will require more treatment sessions for severe to moderate rosacea and fewer sessions if the condition is mild. Overall, treatment should be done at least twice a week.
It is very important to maintain a consistent skin care regimen and to adopt lifestyle behaviors such as regular physical exercising and getting adequate sleep to mitigate the symptoms of rosacea and to enjoy better results from the light therapy.
What to Look For When Buying an LED Red Light Device
Home devices can be used for red light therapy for rosacea. Admittedly, you can go to treatment centers for weekly therapies, but these sessions tend to be quite pricey. Home LED devices are convenient and the best ones are as good as the ones used at dermatologist offices.
Devices vary with price, quality and brand. To get the best results for your rosacea, it is best to invest in a quality device even if it may seem expensive. Here is a quick guide on what to DO and what NOT TO DO when buying a red light therapy lamp for rosacea:
Things to watch out for:
- Don’t but DIY kits that are disposable after use
- Don’t buy battery-powered devices
- Don’t buy products requiring spare or replacement parts
- Don’t buy devices that require a combination of topical treatments
For best results:
- DO buy a high quality product that will last for the long-term
- DO buy power-charged devices as they guarantee longevity
- DO buy a well-known dermatology-approved device
- DO read user reviews and conduct research before buying
- DO consider your lifestyle needs e.g. frequent travel to buy the most appropriate treatment lamp
Worried About Side Effects?
Don’t be—light therapy has been used for many years and so far, there are no reports of adverse side effects resulting from the use of red light therapy for rosacea. With consistent therapy and combined use of other treatments recommended by your dermatologist, it is possible to have rosacea firmly under control.
Product Recommendation:
Rejuven Light LED Light Therapy Device
This surprisingly practical handheld device is designed to operate with 4 colors and wavelengths of LED lights to allow for you to care for every aspect of your skin. The device is one of only a few units with interchangeable treatment panels designed for fighting acne, collagen loss or rosacea.
- Set Contains 4 Interchangeable Light Heads
- helps to treats acne breakouts, wrinkles and fine lines, rosacea and post inflammatory scarring
- 1 Year Limited Warranty
- Includes 1 Set of Protective Goggles